After a devastating explosion leaves 10-year-old Danette severely scarred, her once-idyllic life in a small Iowa farming community is shattered. "Beauty From Ashes" is her gripping memoir of survival, resilience, and faith. From enduring years of painful recovery and emotional battles to ultimately reclaiming her self-worth, Danette's journey takes her from the depths of burn centers to the triumph of being the first severely scarred woman to win a prestigious state beauty pageant as Mrs. Colorado 2021. Her inspiring story proves that true beauty is born from inner strength, shining through even the deepest scars.
"Beauty From Ashes is a beautiful testimony of the strength of a survivor's spirit through the grace of God and the unconditional love and unity of family and community. Danette's story interweaves the essence of the human experience: deep physical and emotional pain and the beauty that comes from real healing. Written in the most authentic voice, this book reads like a letter of love to her family, her community, and most importantly, to herself. Danette gives the reader the freedom to feel, and the comfort in knowing that life's pain and struggle can be what brings us all together to find healing from our own unique circumstances. What an honor it is to read her words as she tells her story the way no one else ever could." - Emily Hedstrom-Leiser, M.A.
"Danette's storytelling ability masterfully brings the reader into the details of her beautiful story filled with pain, restoration, healing, and redemption. It's a story many cannot relate to, but somehow, Danette creatively finds ways for the reader to relate to the lessons she has learned on her journey. A must-read for everyone." - Shalon Polson, MBS, BABJ, Teaching Director, Mrs. Colorado 2010, Miss Colorado Teen USA 1990